This course is the first of two fundamental design courses (the second is LDEM 216). It is a foundation for subsequent design courses. It introduces students to theories of design through readings, analysis and hands-on projects. The course is structured as series of short exercises and is divided into two parts:
Part 1: Fundamental Elements of Landscape Design
An exploration into the modes of space: two-dimensional surfaces, three-dimensional objects, spatial enclosure, and the open continuous landscape. The emphasis is on the media of landform, water, plants, and structures as defining agents of human space in the garden and the landscape at large. The form and character of the space is further determined by the context of the site, the nature of spatial geometry with studies of form, pattern, texture, tone, and color.
Part 2: Basics of Design
This studio introduces students to reading and responding to the site. Goals include learning to experience and record the landscape, to design in response to the site, to think creatively, to generate design ideas and understand design as a process, to gain knowledge of design precedents and principles, and to learn tools and techniques of visual expression. Students will learn through in-class exercises, reading assignments, and design projects. Studio time is divided between lectures, field trips, studio design work, desk critiques, pin-ups and presentations.